A new Pew Research Center survey reveals that most Latinos in the United States disapprove of President Donald Trump’s handling of immigration and the economy during his second term, underscoring growing pessimism within one of the nation’s fastest-growing demographic groups. Conducted in October, the survey highlights widespread concerns about deportation efforts, financial insecurity, and the broader impact of Trump’s policies on Hispanic communities.
Key Findings from the Pew Survey
- 65% disapprove of Trump’s immigration policies, citing heightened deportation efforts and increased immigration enforcement in local communities.
- About four-in-five Latinos say Trump’s policies harm Hispanics, a higher share than during his first term.
- 61% of Latinos believe Trump’s economic policies have worsened conditions, with nearly half reporting struggles to pay for food, housing, or medical expenses in the past year.
- 68% feel their overall situation has declined in the past year, marking one of the bleakest assessments in nearly two decades of Pew surveys.
Immigration Enforcement and Fear of Deportation
The study found that about half of Latinos worry they or someone close to them might be deported, reflecting heightened anxiety amid intensified immigration raids and arrests. Many respondents reported that enforcement actions had occurred in their local areas within the past six months. This fear has contributed to a sense of vulnerability, particularly among mixed-status families where U.S. citizens live alongside undocumented relatives.
Economic Struggles and Pessimism
Latinos also expressed deep concerns about the economy. While Trump campaigned on promises of economic growth, many Latinos say they have experienced worsening financial conditions, including difficulty affording basic necessities. The survey revealed that Latinos are more likely than other U.S. adults to feel unprepared for a financial downturn, with many citing job insecurity and rising costs of living.
Political Implications
The findings carry significant political weight. In the 2024 election, Trump made notable gains among Latino voters, particularly men, narrowing the Democratic advantage in the demographic. However, the Pew survey suggests that support among Latinos has eroded sharply in 2025, with disapproval rates climbing and pessimism spreading across the community.
This shift could influence upcoming elections, as Latino voters represent a crucial bloc in swing states such as Arizona, Nevada, and Florida. Analysts note that the survey results may signal challenges for Trump and the Republican Party in maintaining Latino support if current trends continue.
Broader Context of Latino Identity and Belonging
Beyond policy disapproval, the survey highlights broader concerns about Latino identity and belonging in the U.S. Latinos report historic levels of pessimism about their place in American society, with many questioning whether opportunities for upward mobility remain accessible. Nearly a third of respondents said they had considered leaving the United States, citing the political climate and fears about their future.
The Pew Research Center’s findings paint a sobering picture of Latino sentiment under Trump’s second term. Majorities disapprove of his immigration and economic policies, feel their circumstances have worsened, and express heightened fears of deportation and financial instability. While Trump once made inroads with Latino voters, the survey suggests that his administration’s policies may now be driving them away, reshaping the political landscape ahead of future elections.
A “ Bad Time” To Be Latino in America was first published on the Latino News Network and republished with permission.
The Latino News Network is a multimedia publication providing greater visibility and voice to the Hispanic, Latino community in the United States.
